Why can't I delete files or folders in a WORM share to the recycle bin?
Applicable Products
QuTS Hero
Symptom
Even after the retention period of a WORM (Write Once Read Many) folder has expired, attempting to delete a file Recycle Bin but failed.
Root cause
When a file is deleted to Recycle Bin, the system attempts to perform a “rename” operation to move the file into the recycle bin directory. However, WORM folders prohibit file renaming—even after the retention period has expired. As a result, the delete operation fails.
Solution
To successfully delete files from a WORM folder after the retention period ends, use one of the following methods:
Option 1: Disable the Network Recycle Bin
1. Log in to QuTS Hero and open the Control Panel.
2. Under the Privilege section, click Shared Folders.
3. Locate the shared folder that contains the file you want to delete.
4. Click the Edit Properties icon (pencil icon).
5. Uncheck the 'Enable Recycle Bin' option.
6. Click OK to save the changes.
Now, delete the file, it will be removed directly.
Option 2: Choose Permanent Deletion
Use a deletion method that bypasses the Network Recycle Bin:
File Station: choose Delete permanently
SMB: Use Shift + Delete on your keyboard when deleting the file from Windows Explorer.
These methods skip the recycle bin and do not trigger a rename action, allowing the deletion to proceed successfully.
Further Reading
QuTS Hero 5.2.x Manual | Creating a shared folder
